Toughing it out when times get tougher

Rugged rotary switches have many industrial applications and are a ‘must have’ in the agricultural vehicle sector where they are subjected to very harsh conditions. A new solution to meet this need is the Elma MR50 multi rotary switch from Foremost Electronics.

The MR50 is described by the company as an “extremely small, yet robust, multifunctional rotary switch providing the highest functionality and performance in a minimal space for compact control panels and portable devices” with front panel sealing to IP60 and IP68 and “exceptional vibration resistance”.

The Elma MR50 is said to be highly customisable and has been used in applications as diverse as target aiming devices, night vision devices, interface solutions, two-way radios, cockpit applications (aircraft, automotive, construction machines, military vehicles), portable devices (communication, medical, rescue, sports, transportation, measuring, photo/video and test equipment.

Multiple switching positions

With a diameter of ½” (12.7mm), the MR50 provides up to 16 switch positions, with switching torques of up to 6 Ncm, and operates in either shorting or non-shorting mode. With gold-plated contacts (3-micron gold), the switch performs over the operating temperature range of -45 °C to +85 °C.

“The market for compact, robust electromechanical HMI products offering operators safe and simple operation and direct tactile feedback continues to grow in industrial and vehicle systems,” says Alan Vincent, Foremost sales director. “While touch screens are increasing in popularity as an HMI solution, they are not always suitable for noisy, harsh environments or when operators may have to wear protective clothing such as gloves. The new Elma MR50 multi rotary switch offers a compact, rugged, flexible control product.”